In response to an alarming outbreak of Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 2 (cVDPV2), the Ministry of Health in Kenya has announced a nationwide polio vaccination campaign. Set to run from October 2nd to 6th, 2024, the campaign aims to safeguard millions of children from the life-altering effects of polio.
The urgency behind this initiative stems from the confirmation of five cases of cVDPV2 this year. Four of these cases were detected in children living in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Turkana County, while one was discovered through environmental surveillance in Kamukunji Sub-County, Nairobi.
These outbreaks have triggered a response that will target more than 3.8 million children under the age of five across nine high-risk counties: Nairobi, Busia, Bungoma, Turkana, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado.
At a media briefing in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Ms. Mary M. Muriuki, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating polio. She stressed the pivotal role that over 107,000 Community Health Promoters will play in ensuring the campaign’s success.
Ms. Muriuki called upon parents and caregivers in the targeted counties to ensure their children receive the vital polio vaccine.While polio remains a top priority, Ms. Muriuki also addressed another public health concern—an ongoing mpox outbreak in the country.
Eight cases have been confirmed, and the public is advised to maintain proper hygiene and avoid physical contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms.
The Ministry of Health is actively working to secure vaccines for mpox, particularly for high-risk populations.This polio vaccination drive coincides with the launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1st, 2024, an initiative aimed at advancing sustainable healthcare financing under Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
The Ministry of Health is encouraging the public to stay informed and report any suspected cases of polio or mpox through their emergency hotlines.
This effort would not be possible without the vital support of international partners, including WHO Kenya, UNICEF Kenya, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Kenya Red Cross Society, among others.
With the combined efforts of healthcare providers, community leaders, parents, and caregivers, Kenya is poised to move closer to a future where polio is no longer a threat.
The Ministry’s rallying cry, #EndPolioKE, serves as a reminder that together, a healthier future for Kenya’s children is within reach.
